Emergenza closed out its premier season in Charlotte, N.C. this past weekend at the Tremont Music Hall with a plethora of great acts, different genres of music and talent! Tremont was perfect for the event. A huge sweaty rock club complete with great sound, an enormous stage and wonderful staff that was accommodating and friendly. As the fans poured in and the bands geared up for a great show, the judges took their seats and the show began! Lucky 5, a young indie-pop band opened the show with an act that was tough to follow! Their ability to seamlessly move from one song to the next made for a very well rounded and consistently good set. With incredible vocals, superb keyboards and a guitarist that ripped through solos as if the guitar were his 5th limb these guys rocked hard. Guitarist, Shago, went home with the title of "Best Guitarist" for Charlotte. High Ride followed with a set that was emotionally filled and intense. Their acoustic sound, complimented by intricate guitar solos and stellar vocals, displayed both talent and class. They played to an appreciative audience and incorporated great lyrics with strong rhythms and beats to complete their original sound. Such As Life changed things up a bit with a harder rock sound that was unique and intriguing. Their lead singer held the audience in his hands as he belted out screaming lyrics that were on-point and fierce. Together with complex guitar work, elaborate bass lines and complicated double bass drum beats these guys rocked their hearts out! Solos Unit took the stage by surprise with an unexpected sound that not only changed the vibe, but also changed the energy. This hip-hop rock mixed with jazz and funk group was astounding. Their vocalists rapped and sung words that were exciting and relatable. Their pianist ripped it up on a Rhodes while their drummer kept the beats tight and interesting. These guys had the ability not only to entertain but also to exhibit talent that is so amazing that jaws were dropped and the crowd went wild. Retrovisions Upon Recollection are a unique group with a fascinating use of instrumentation and composition. They included turntables into their music that added samples and beats and aided in the originality and complexity of their music. Their drummer took home the title for "Best Drummer" and boy did he deserve this award! With strong vocals and solid stage presence these guys put on an excellent show. Tropic Culture was something else. This 9 piece original Latin pop band swept the audience and judges away with their upbeat and fun set. They had a trumpet, violin, acoustic and electric guitar, bass, percussion and drums that created a unique and dance worthy sound. Their bassist went home with the prize for "Best Bass" as the judges and audience concluded that this was the band to represent Charlotte in Columbia, South Carolina’s finals next weekend. Well-done guys! You deserve it! Humans never cease to astound with their amazing rock sound that can be enjoyed by young and old alike. With an intense stage presence led by a crazy and sweaty front man, excellent guitar solos and thumping rhythms these guys are perfect for the frat party or the hippie festival. Their original music and spunky lyrics add to the already entertaining set and left audiences begging for more. U-Phonik is another band to be appreciated by all. These Montreal natives incorporate a European sound into their original pop music. With incredible vocals and excellent instrumentation these talented fellas awe and excite. Their loyal fans waved glow sticks and sang along to the radio friendly and MTV worthy songs. Black Ritual brought about a harder rock sound as the late night crowd began to get their party on and the venue exploded with energy. Their tight rhythms and fierce vocals had the audience alive and raging. Their front man had an air of professionalism and display